​Waterford, Michigan -- Residents and businesses can learn how to be more energy efficient through workshops being offered through Oakland County.

The OakGreen Program, in partnership with the WARM Training Center will offer a free workshop

for residents on Tuesday, January 24 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and for businesses on Wednesday, January 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Wixom Community Center, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. Pre-register at 248-624-2850, via fax at 248-624-3090 or via the web at www.wixomparksandrec.com.

Residents will learn what works for saving energy, learn about inexpensive materials that lower bills, how to shop for energy efficient appliances, and more.

Businesses will learn the essentials of making their business more energy efficient including best practices, financing options and how to prioritize the best steps to take.

"Oakland County is leading by example. We have been working to reduce our energy consumption in county buildings. Our efforts have translated to a savings or cost avoidance of $4 million in our utility bills since 2005," says Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson.

A future workshop is planned for Oak Park.

OakGreen is an initiative to share information, encourage collaboration and connect Oakland County residents, businesses and communities to resources that can advance environmental stewardship, economic growth and strong communities. The mission of OakGreen is to provide businesses, communities and residents the knowledge and tools to be more sustainable, reduce expenses, and reduce energy consumption.

For more information about the OakGreen Program, see the website (oakgov.com/oakgreen) or contact Nina Ignaczak at 248-858-2470 or misuracan@oakgov.com.